The
Rufous-crowned Sparrow is a bird of rocky, brushy areas of the southwestern
U.S., southern Great Plains, and Mexico. In range, they are sometimes
referred to as "Rock Sparrows" by the local populus, given their preference
for rocky habitats. There they are usually sighted as foraging pairs,
moving deliberately along the ground in search of insects and seeds.
There are many recognized sub-species of Rufous-crowned Sparrows, each with
minor differences in plumage and/or song.

Habitat: Found in rocky, brushy areas, such as
arid rocky scrub of the desert Southwest, or shrubby areas on rocky outcrops
in the southern Great Plains.

Diet: Feeds on insects and seeds, with insects and
spiders making up most of the summer diet, and seeds making up a larger part
of the diet in winter.

Behavior: Forages by walking along the ground,
moving deliberately in search of food. Will also sometimes forages low
in the foliage of shrubs or weeds. They are usually found foraging in pairs.

Nesting: The nest of a Rufous-crowned
Sparrow is a cup of grasses, weeds, and twigs, built on the ground in a
protected area such as the base of a shrub or small tree. The female
lays 3 or 4 eggs, with the female incubating them. Upon hatching, both
parents help to feed the young, who leave the nest after about 10 days.

Song: The song of a Rufous-crowned Sparrow is a
rough chattering that descends in pitch. Also has a nasal "deer
deer deer" call.

Migration: Considered a permanent resident
throughout its range, although some birds at the northern end of their range
may move short distances southward for the winter.